That's an excellent and practical question for anyone managing a community space. For a small park, the size of your outdoor trash bins is a balance between capacity, maintenance effort, and aesthetics. There isn't a single universal answer, but a common and effective guideline is to use bins in the 20 to 32-gallon range.
Here’s the reasoning behind that recommendation. A small park typically has lower foot traffic than a large urban plaza. Bins that are too large (like 50+ gallons) can become heavy, difficult for staff to empty, and might encourage people to dump household waste. They can also look overwhelming in a serene setting. Conversely, bins that are too small (under 20 gallons) will overflow quickly on a busy weekend, creating litter and requiring very frequent, costly collection.
The 20-32 gallon bin is a sweet spot. It holds enough waste from park visitors (snack wrappers, drink containers, dog waste bags) for a day or two before needing service. This size is manageable for maintenance crews to lift and empty. For high-traffic areas near a playground or picnic tables, leaning toward the 32-gallon size or placing two bins is wise. For quieter pathways, a 20-gallon bin may suffice.
Ultimately, consider these factors: Park Attendance (how many people visit daily?), Collection Schedule (can your team empty them daily or only twice a week?), and Bin Placement (are they at key gathering spots?). Starting with 32-gallon bins at primary locations is a safe, effective choice for most small parks, ensuring a cleaner environment for everyone.